Otamendi deal possible, Pedro could make Newcastle debut

Okay, the Otamendi speculation has become something of a roller coaster, but the news is true, and even if it still could go any way, there’s a big chance that the transfer will happen to either Manchester Clubs.

Some sources have been saying that Manchester United aren’t interested in the player, others are claiming that they matched the asking price but City’s bid was more favorable since it included Mangala going the other way on loan as part of the transfer, but after Mangala’s great performance against Chelsea, Pellegrini seems to have changed his mind and now wants to pay cash without any player exchange, which set the deal to hit a wall for now, while Otamendi is already in Manchester and has reportedly agreed terms with City. The initial deal was €40m plus Mangala’s loan, but now Valencia want more than €40m, and are probably going to squeeze 5 more million out of City if they were to accept the bid. (Also confirmed by Sky Sports journalist Guillem Balague)

But now, things have changed, and leaked news is that Otamendi & Jorge Mendes are staying at Lowry Hotel, which is the same hotel that the Manchester United squad are staying at ahead of Champions League play-off match against Club Brugge later tonight.

Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal has told Jonny Evans that he can leave the club, decreasing the number of available center backs to less than what is needed. United have Smalling, Rojo, Blackett, McNair and the currently injured Phil Jones alongside Daley Blind who has recently been given this role.

Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Atletic Bilbao could be Pedro’s last game for the club as both clubs have a deal in place. Ed Woodward flew to Barcelona last night to make sure everything goes smoothly, Pedro’s deal could be announced as soon as tonight, subject to medical, and could feature in Manchester United’s Premier League game against Newcastle United this Saturday.

The only reason the transfer took this much time is because Barcelona wanted €30, while Ed Woodward didn’t want to pay more than €25 plus €5m addons.